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Friday, January 31, 2025  
01 Shaban 1446  

Melania Trump’s official portrait released, sparks discussion on image, role

Mahaux expresses her honour in being chosen again
Photo via BBC/Regine Mahaux / The White House
Photo via BBC/Regine Mahaux / The White House

The official portrait of US First Lady Melania Trump has been unveiled, taken in the White House just one day after her husband was inaugurated.

The striking black and white photograph features Melania in a dark business suit and white shirt, resting her hands on a reflective table in the Yellow Oval Room, with the iconic Washington Monument visible in the background.

Captured by Belgian photographer Régine Mahaux, who has documented the Trump family for over 20 years, this portrait marks the second official image of Melania, following her first term in office.

Mahaux expressed her honour in being chosen again, stating, “As an artist to work with such an inspiring woman is a great privilege.”

Experts have weighed in on the significance of the image. Faculty Director of the Department of History of Art at the University of Pennsylvania, Gwendolyn DuBois Shaw, noted the striking symbolism of her pose and attire, suggesting it conveys a readiness to engage in her role as First Lady.

She emphasised the trust between Melania and Mahaux, which contributes to the confidence and poise displayed in the portrait.

Fashion writer Ellie Violet Bramley commented on how the portrait seems to embody a sense of power that diverges from traditional expectations of a First Lady.

She pointed out that Melania’s business-like stance and attire suggest a more corporate image, which may signal her intent to approach her role with greater authority this time around.

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Bramley also observed that the portrait “departs significantly from the softer, more approachable image presented in her previous official portrait.”

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